The Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University Students is a Government of India merit-cum-means scholarship for academically meritorious students from low-income families. To be eligible, students must have scored above the 80th percentile in their Class 12 board exam (state or central) AND have family income below Rs. 8 lakh per annum.
The scholarship pays Rs. 12,000 per year for the first three years of undergraduate study, increasing to Rs. 20,000 per year if continued at postgraduate level (4th-5th year for integrated courses, or as part of MTech/MA). Approximately 82,000 scholarships are awarded each year, distributed across states based on the population of Class 12 successful candidates.
Renewal each year requires maintaining a minimum 60% aggregate (50% for SC/ST) and continuous study at a recognized institution. Apply via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP); discontinuation is automatic if you take admission to a private/deemed university with high fees and don't meet the ceiling.